Chapter 5, Created Equal Summary and Analysis

The chapter begins with a question concerning the meaning of the words "equality" and "liberty." The terms seem to take on a different meaning over time. Originally, equality meant equality before God and liberty meant the freedom of the individuals to make their own decisions concerning their own lives. This is why slavery was a Constitutional issue. After the Civil War, the emphasis shifted to equality of opportunity. The idea of equality was eventually applied to living standards, quality of life and income. This brings equality into conflict with liberty. One group does not have the right to impose its wants and will on other groups of society. Thus, the emphasis now is on equality before God and the law.

The equality of outcome is the belief that everyone should receive their fair share. Any governmental attempt...